Testing an AK Chambered in .50 BMG

Published on February 2, 2022
Duration: 15:49

This video details an experimental test of an AK-style shotgun chambered in .50 BMG, focusing on the catastrophic failure of a modified JTS-12. Expertly guided by Brandon Herrera, the test highlights the dangers of exceeding a firearm's design limits, particularly concerning receiver pin and lug strength under extreme pressure. The experiment underscores the difference between a fireformed 12-gauge chamber and a properly fitted .50 BMG chamber in handling immense forces.

Quick Summary

Brandon Herrera's expert test of an AK-50 V2.5 (.50 BMG) on a modified JTS-12 shotgun resulted in a catastrophic receiver failure. The experiment demonstrated that a precisely fitted .50 BMG chamber cannot handle the extreme pressure within an AK receiver, unlike a loosely fitted 12-gauge chamber which vents pressure.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: AK-50 V2.5 Experiment
  2. 00:44Previous Shotgun Tests
  3. 02:17The Custom Build
  4. 04:22Safety and Range Setup
  5. 05:34Failure Predictions
  6. 07:47The Explosion
  7. 08:15Damage Assessment
  8. 12:07Scientific Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened when Brandon Herrera tested the AK-50 V2.5?

Brandon Herrera tested a modified JTS-12 shotgun chambered in .50 BMG. The firearm experienced a massive catastrophic failure, exploding due to the extreme pressure of the .50 BMG round exceeding the receiver's design limits.

Why did the standard JTS-12 survive .50 BMG rounds in previous tests?

In previous tests, a standard JTS-12 shotgun survived .50 BMG rounds because its loose chamber fit allowed pressure to escape as the brass fireformed to the 12-gauge dimensions, preventing a full pressure event on the receiver.

What were the key failure points of the modified JTS-12 during the .50 BMG test?

The modified JTS-12 failed due to extreme pressure. Key failure points included sheared barrel pins, a split magazine well, and locking lugs that were completely 'smeared' by the immense force of the .50 BMG round.

What safety precautions were taken during the AK-50 BMG test?

During the AK-50 V2.5 test, safety precautions included using a lead sled to secure the firearm and a remote string-pull trigger to fire the weapon from a safe distance, ensuring personnel were well clear of the testing area.

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